What is Red Split Lentil?

Lens culinaris Medikus

The red split lentil is also known as Egyptian lentil or Masoor dal.
It’s made from splitting whole brownish-red lentils. The skin (also referred to as seed coat or testa) is removed and the remaining reddish-orange seed (also referred to as cotyledon) is then split into two halves.The most common type of red lentil is the Red Chief. It’s a lovely salmon pink in its dried form, but it turns golden yellow when cooked. It’s approximately ¼ inch in diameter and nearly flat. (North American Grain)

Canada has several processing plants in Saskatchewan, capable of de-hulling (removing the outer seed coat) and splitting both red and green types of lentils for the world market.

Cooking Red Split Lentils

The red split lentilsdo not require soaking prior to cooking and cook in 10-12 minutes. During cooking, they disintegrate into puree and are therefore best for soups, thickening stews, curries and casseroles, and making dips. Before cooking, you should wash them in warm water to remove dust and dirt.

Nutrition

in general, lentils are high in fibre, low in fat and sodium and are cholesterol free. They are also high in protein, are an excellent source of both soluble and insolublefibre, complex carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, especially B vitamins, potassium, iron, phosphorus and zinc. Split lentils have relatively low amounts of fibre because the skin (seed coat or testa) has been removed and most of the fibre is found on the skin. (Bulk Barn)

Culinary Use

Lentil is an important food source for millions of people worldwide. It has a mild, subtly sweet flavour.

In India, split lentil, also known as dhal or dal, is used in soups and is consumed widely with nearly every meal.

In southern Asia, red split lentils are used in curries.

Lentil flour can be blended with other flours for added taste and nutrition.

The blended flour can be used to make yeast and quick breads, muffins, biscuits, fritters, batter and pancakes.

Lentil flour can also be added to baby foods for nutrition.

Pureed lentilsmake a great addition to muffin and loaf recipes, contributing to moistness as well as adding fibre and protein.